Downloading and Installing Movie Maker
The first thing to do is download the software. A link can be found on Microsoft's website here.
The box that contains the text "Download Now" downloads the Windows Essentials 2012 installer. There are options for other languages and earlier versions in the "Other download options" link. Windows Essentials 2011 is not available, however, because of a bug that caused security issues. You can learn more about that here.
After the download is complete, open the installer. This installer is for all Windows Essentials 2012 programs, so you also have the option of installing Messenger, Writer, and other programs if you wish. Follow through the prompts and the installer will install the software you selected. Once installed, restart your computer to finish the job.
When you open Movie Maker for the first time, a window will pop up with the terms and conditions of using the software. Read through them and click accept. Movie Maker will then open and you are ready to begin your project.
Beginning a New Project
As explained in the tutorial to the left, it is possible to make an entire movie in less than thirty seconds. First, add picture and/or video files by clicking one of the buttons indicated below.
After that, choose all of the files you would like to use and Movie Maker will open them inside the blue dotted line. You can drag and drop each file to change the order that they appear. Then simply select one of the Automovie themes and add music if you like when prompted. You can tweak the movie's transitions and add captions, and then you're done!
